Snow Leopard Photo Expeditions

Ladakh, located in the far north of India, is an extraordinary habitat for snow leopards. It is nestled among some of the world’s most magnificent mountain ranges. This former Tibetan Buddhist Kingdom is arguably the premier destination on Earth. Our well curated Snow Leopard Expedition to Ladakh is designed to offer a deep immersion into the region’s culture and history while pursuing these charismatic creatures.

The breathtaking landscapes, awe-inspiring fauna, and diverse flora of Ladakh are captivating in the summer months. Yet, in winter, the region transforms into an even more enchanting haven for spirited nature enthusiasts. The season’s highlight is the rare opportunity to glimpse the elusive snow leopard, often called the ‘Ghost of the Mountains’.

Our team of experts, with years of close engagement with Ladakh’s natural world and wildlife, has meticulously crafted this expedition. Not only will you seek out the snow leopard in its natural habitat, but you will also gain an in-depth understanding of the wilderness from seasoned nature interpreters. Along the way, you will experience the rich traditions of Ladakhi culture, enjoy their warm hospitality, hear stories of the ancient Ladakh kingdom, and explore the region’s serene Buddhist monasteries.

ITINERARY

Experience the stunning beauty of Ladakh with our curated itinerary. After a smooth airport transfer to your comfortable hotel in Leh, spend your first day acclimatizing. Over the next week, explore the Leh Valley, search for snow leopards in Saspoche and Uley, and discover the serene village of Hemis Shukpachan. Enjoy guided wildlife tracking, breathtaking landscapes, and local culture. We’ll ensure a seamless transfer back to the airport at the end of your adventure.

DAY 1: Arrive in Leh (11,500 Ft)

We will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the Gawaling Hotel. This will be the acclimatization day. It is best that you let your body acclimatize by taking the day slowly, sipping tea, hydrating yourself, or just reading a book with a view. In the evening, we can stroll around the markets of Leh.

DAY 2: Acclimatisation in Leh

We will start our day after breakfast. We will enjoy a relaxed pace today. We shall first head to Thiksey Gompa. This monastery was established in the 1600s, featuring Ladakh’s most gorgeous image, a huge statue of the Maitreya. After this, we will go on a beautiful drive along the picturesque valley. We return to the hotel for an early lunch and rest since you are still acclimatizing. In the evening, we will visit the Shanti Stupa, a peace pagoda built by the Japanese in the 80s. It also offers stunning views of the mighty Ladakh range.

DAY 3- Transfer to Uley (13,200 ft)

We will transfer you to Uley today. An hour and a half’s drive takes us to this quiet village tucked in a rugged valley, where snow leopards are known to roam. This region lies at the heart of snow leopard country and is one of the most reliable places to scan for the cat. After a day spent searching the slopes with our spotters and field team, we’ll return to our cozy rooms in Uley, sharing stories around the bukhari with a warm cup of chai in hand.

DAY 4 TO DAY 7- Uley

Over the next few days, we’ll explore the remote villages of Saspoche and Hemis Shukpachan, regions known for snow leopard movement and stunning Himalayan landscapes. Accompanied by our expert spotters and local trackers, we’ll search for signs of the elusive cat and other wildlife like blue sheep, Ladakhi Urial, and Ibex. You'll be transferred to different vantage points, and return each evening to our cozy village stay in Uley.

DAY 8- Depart:

It’s time to bid farewell to the majestic mountains of Ladakh. We will transfer you to Leh airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure.

Good trekking shoes
(Preferably with ankle support)
A 30 L daypack with raincover
2 pair of thermals
1 woollen sweater
2 fleece
1 padded jacket (Available on rent)
4 pairs of quick dry T-shirts
Dry fit trekking pants (Available on rent)
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Gloves (Available on rent)
Balaclava

PACKING LIST

Woollen cap (Available on rent)
2 pair of Woollen socks
Trekking pole (Optional)
Rain jacket + pants or a poncho
Sunscreen and Moisturiser
Light towel
Lip balm or vaseline
Toilet paper
(Wet wipes are strictly prohibited)
Toiletries
Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)
Two water bottles or Hydration Pack
Personal medical kit

High resolution Camera
Lens with minimum 400 mm
Teleconverter recomeded
3 Batteries (Atleast)
Good Tripod

CAMERA GEAR

DOCUMENTS

A soft copy of the government photo identity card (Original has to be carried during the trip). Anything such as a driver’s licence, Aadhar Card, or passport will do. This is required for acquiring the local permits.

Disclaimer form: A copy of the disclaimer will be sent to you prior to the tour. Print it, read carefully, fill in and sign it. This must be handed over to your expedition leader during the first day of briefing at Leh.

POINTS TO KEEP IN MIND

Ladakh can get extremely cold during winter, with temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling Negative 25 degrees Celsius. However, we will have traditional heating systems in the home stays to ensure a cozy and comfortable stay.

Due to the intense cold, taking baths isn’t advisable as it’s crucial to conserve body heat and avoid issues like mountain sickness and hypothermia. We will be flying into Leh, which sits at around 11,500 feet. This altitude change from the plains can be quite significant, so we will need to focus on acclimatising our bodies to the higher altitude and cold conditions.

Another important note is that water sources in Ladakh freeze during winter, which means water in pipes is also frozen. Most facilities use dry toilets, which function without water. We will use a waterless system with a pit and sawdust, which helps turn human waste into manure over time. For personal cleaning, we will use tissue.

We understand this may sound a bit different from what you are used to, but rest assured, we will
be here to guide you through every step and ensure your comfort.

Accommodation: Stay is included from day one to day eight with three meals a day with coffee and snacks. Accommodation will be on twin sharing basis.

Safety Equipment: A High Altitude Medical Kit along with Oxygen Cylinder.

Permits: All Inner Line Permits (for Both Indians and Foreign Nationals), Photography and Community welfare fee.

Naturalist : An expert naturalist who will help us spot Snow Leopards and other wildlife on field.

Transportation : Local transportation from day one to day eight (Leh Airport to Leh Airport).

Equipment: Technical equipment like scope, and binoculars on a sharing basis.

INCLUSIONS

EXCLUSIONS

Personal porter (Available on request)

Travel Insurance

PAYMENT TERMS

A non-refundable advance payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking. The remaining amount must be settled at least 20 days before the tour begins.